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Heya guys! This is gonna be a real quick update because I’ve been a terrible blogger this summer, and that makes me sad. I have no excuse; I was just a lazy human.

I still want to make a post regarding the one year anniversary of this blog! My first legit post was made on July 19th, and even though it’ll be a month late, I want to honor it. I don’t really know what I’ll do yet. That’s future Gigi’s problem.

I will be leaving for band camp on Wednesday, so I wouldn’t expect any content until after that all ends in about 2 weeks. After that though, school starts, and I’ll actually have a reason to wear legitimate outfits! And makeup! Maybe I’ll have motivation? Hopefully? Also I’m gonna try super hard to not give up on reading like I’ve done every past semester. I’ve read soooo much this summer, and I don’t want that to go away. Books make me feel good.

What’s up for the upcoming months:

I’m gonna try to do 2 posts a week, and at least one of those posts will be fashion related. Once again, don’t hold me to this. This blog is one of my hobbies, and sometimes life doesn’t allow time for those. I’ll be super busy with my frat, colorguard, and school work, but if I can make time for scrolling mindlessly on tumblr until the wee hours of the morning, then I can make time to write up a post.

Anyways, I’ve still managed to gain followers, so I hope I don’t let you guys down! I’m so appreciative of you guys. Thank you so much for sticking around!

This post is going to come in parts. I feel like a lot has happened since I was last blogging regularly, and I want to keep you guys updated in the least chaotic way possible.

Part 1: Spring Semester Wrap-Up

I did amazingly well this past semester, despite it being my busiest one yet. I really filled up my plate but somehow managed to come out way on top. I got on Dean’s list and straight A’s. As of a few weeks ago, that seemed completely impossible. Talk about pulling it out of one’s ass, eh?

I also finished pledging Alpha Phi Omega! I love being a brother of APO; I’ve made some fantastic friendships while strengthening others. I’m so glad I stepped out of my comfort zone and went for it. I wear my letters constantly, and I couldn’t be prouder. Also shout out to the best Big in the world!

Oh Classics Colorguard… I’m assuming that there’s a large part of my readership that doesn’t have a very good understanding of indoor competitive colorguard, and I’m not going to try to explain it here, maybe that’s a post for the future? However, all you need to know is that over the past 7 months, I made lifelong friendships and became a stronger person. I bonded with 22 fantastic girls and a handful of coaches, and I couldn’t be happier that I was part of the experience. We got silver at Chapters and All Chapter Championships, and I am so incredibly proud of what we accomplished. I am in love with this activity!

Whew. Well those were the big things that happened. I survived sophomore year, successfully pledged a fraternity, and spun in a fantastic colorguard. I really pushed myself to the limits over the last few months, and I don’t regret a single thing. I also turned 20 last month! I’m in a really good place right now, even if I’m experiencing a lot of bittersweet, end-of-a-life-chapter feels.

Anyway, with all this stuff filling up my schedule, blogging really took to the backseat. Like wayyyyyy backseat. Almost in the trunk. But really only in the last couple of weeks, if I think about it. I had a few great spurts of blogging during February and March. I actually broke some personal records for the blog! Easily the blog’s success skyrocketed during those months, but then it cut off, obviously. I had plans for some Spring stuff, but the weather never warmed up enough, and everything else took over. Excuses, excuses, I know. Like I said, no regrets, but there’s no denying that my blog inspiration suffered.

I’m officially free and on Summer break, so there’s nothing holding me back now. Except that I’m still recovering from everything coming to a screeching stop. I still feel creatively sapped; so much so that I’m finding it hard to even read, which is one of my favorite summer activities. My brain is just sort of shut down right now. I’m going to have to ride this out and let myself rest. It’s my break and I can do that if I want!

Part 2: What I’m Planning for this Blog

I’m going to keep it super casual. I still want to implement those Spring ideas that I had. Also once my reading does pick back up, I’ll have some accompanying posts. Anticipate the usual: casual fashion, easy makeup, bookish thoughts, and the occasional, wayward write-up, like this.

Also, the one year anniversary of this blog is coming up. I have no ideas really, but I’m sure I’ll post something, so keep a look-out for that!

Part 3: What I’m Planning for this Summer

Just like the blog, I’m keeping my schedule casual and untied. I have a couple of concerts already planned out, as well as a few fraternity things. But overall, I’m trying to stay commitment-free. Last summer I worked too much, and it was absolutely no fun. Sure the extra money was nice, but it and the rest of my summer days went too fast. This year, I’m letting the proverbial wind take me where it wishes. I deserve it after my stressful and successful semester. And even if I don’t end up doing too much, at least I got some relaxation before another jam-packed semester starts up.

Part 4: Closing Words

This was one wordy, long ass post. Apologies. I’ll keep this short.

I’m in a really good place right now. I’m surrounded with love, support, and happiness. That’s all a girl can ask for!

Also, I just want to give a quick thanks to anyone who’s kept up with my blog (or even just made it to end of this post!). I know I have a puny following and don’t post nearly enough, but numbers don’t matter. You guys keep me going and are a big reason I keep crawling back to this mediocre blog of mine. I appreciate ya’ll sticking around.

All of me loves all of you! 🙂

xoxo Gigi.

P.S. Have some group photos of people who have become incredibly important to me. ❤

Also bonus: here’s a group of girls who have been important to me for a long while. Even if all this crazy stuff is happening, they’ll stick with me through it all. ❤

The article Cosmopolitan published a couple weeks ago has been circulating the plus size blogosphere with force. Many gals have taken to answering the questions themselves, and I want to follow suit. I know I’m younger that most of the ladies that have done it, but I thought my readers would be interested in knowing the story behind my body and how I feel about it. So let’s get right into it!

How do you feel when other women around you complain about feeling/being fat?

I really don’t like it. I understand that each person has internal struggles with their body image, but it still gets to me. I’m always thinking, if they see themselves as fat, then what do they think of me? I just try to surround myself with people that don’t make these comments. If they do, I tell them to embrace their fluff and move on. People know me for being a jokester, so they’ll laugh at me and do just that, move on. Pretty effective, and keeps everyone in good spirits at least for a little while.

How has your body image changed since high school? College?

Ever since being on my own at college, I’ve embraced my personal style, and my body image has greatly improved. With it, my mental health and sociability have gotten better. People will love me despite my size, and if I’m confident and happy, people around me will be as well.

However, it’s obviously an on going battle. I still have really bad days both with my body and my head. I don’t think that can ever go away for anybody. It’s getting better, though, and that’s all I can hope for.

Have you tried dieting? What happened?

Actually, not really. I never stuck to anything for more than like 2 days. I just love food too much. And my dad’s an amazing Italian chef; how am I supposed to pass that up? At school I have more well-rounded options, and I definitely make a conscious decision to eat healthier, but that’s about living a healthy life, not about losing weight.

Do you think in your case your weight is partly or entirely genetic?

There’s a pretty good possibility. Thyroid problems are prevalent on my mom’s side, and most women on my dad’s side are big and strong. I come from big, beautiful Italian women, and there’s absolutely nothing wrong with that.

Do you consider yourself healthy? Have there been instances where people assumed you were unhealthy?

Like I said, I’ve been making sure I make healthy choices. However, I love rich and fried foods, and you can’t get me to give them up. With colorguard I’m pretty active, but I could probably stand to make more time for the gym. But that just really doesn’t appeal to me, and I’d rather be plump and happy rather than thin and stressed.

Are your parents both supportive of you at the weight you’re at? Have they always been?

They never seemed to have a problem. Like previously mentioned, I come from two families of strong Italian women who appreciate food. It’s kind of expected. I think they care more that I’m healthy and happy.

How do you think retailers can improve clothes for plus-size people?

I just wish I knew how it felt to walk into a store, see something I like, pick out my size, and buy it. That just doesn’t exist for girls of my size. I have to search online for hours just to find something cute in my size that I can afford. Yesterday I went to Target and was incredibly annoyed with the fact that there were practically no 2x’s in stock. It’s frustrating to have a personal style that no one seems to make clothes for. And if you’re a fat girl that likes trendy/edgy clothing? Well then you’re completely shit out of luck because that just doesn’t exist in our size.

Also… one size fits all sweaters and leggings?! Yeah, no.

Do you think plus-size women are judged differently than plus-sized men are? How?

You see a fat guy lounging with no shirt on at the beach? No problem! You see a fat girl lounging in a two piece at the beach? Ew how dare she! I don’t feel like getting into this. It’s just disgusting how judgemental people can be.

Do you think there’s an assumption made/stereotype that exists about plus-size people? How would you respond to it?

People think we’re lazy, unattractive, unsuccessful, that we lack self control… The list goes on and on. I know plenty of girls that are sexy and successful all while rocking their curves. I have plenty of friends, and I’m doing extremely well both in and out of school. Every person is different. No one else dictates how I live my life. Stereotypes practically exist to be broken.

Do you think there’s ever a right way or time to express concern about someone’s weight?

I say it’s better to just mind your own business.

What are the worst things people have said to you about your body?

Back in middle school I was called every name in the book. In high school it was never really directly said to me; it was more snickering behind my back as I walked past a table. However, it never really got to me. Sure on bad body days they echo in my head, but overall, I couldn’t care less about those people who have nothing else better to do than call a girl out on something she sees everyday in the mirror.

What have people said (or do you wish they’d say) that would compliment your body or appearance?

Since about senior year of high school, I’ve been getting a fair share of compliments. When I wear a nice outfit or do my hair pretty or take time to do my makeup, there’s always a handful of people who comment on it. I’ve surrounded myself with people who genuinely care about me and think highly of me. It does wonders for one’s self esteem.

Do you find yourself hanging out with women who are closer to your size?

Actually no. I have a lot of friends, and they all vary greatly in body types and sizes. I don’t care about someone’s appearance. I care about whether or not they’re an asshole.

How has your weight affected your sex life, if at all?

Oh boy.

I don’t have a sex life as of yet. I’m not sure if it has anything to do with my weight. I’ve never been in a relationship, and I’ve never been in an intimate situation. This really doesn’t bother me though. I like being independent and not having to worry directly about anyone other than myself.

When you’ve been single, has your weight affected your dating life?

It might. I’m sure there have been people that have been attracted to my personality, but my appearance held them back. I’m not really looking for a relationship though, so I can’t say I’ve been directly rejected recently. There was an ongoing… something or other… with someone, and I think my appearance made him uncomfortable. Sucks for him, I’m an amazing gal.

Do you feel weird if the guy you’re with only dates larger women?

Not really? A guy likes what he likes I guess. Nothing wrong with that. Just so he treats me well and doesn’t objectify me. You wouldn’t judge a guy for dating only skinny girls, so why would it be different for fat girls? Each person is different, and choosing to be in a relationship with someone goes past their physical characteristics.

Do you feel weird if he’s only dated slimmer women before you?

Nope. Obviously I’m fabulous enough to have broken their streak. I take that as a compliment!

———–

So that’s it! This did get a little TMI, but I have nothing to hide. This is my fat life and I’m embracing it!

Yesterday I hit an all time high in views and visitors on this blog! I’m so proud of how far this little blog has come in such a small amount of time. (Also my follower count on tumblr is skyrocketing!) Today I got so many compliments, I could barely handle it all. Someone even called me perfect. This week has been pretty damn good, and it’s only Wednesday! And I have off the rest of the week off for the snowpocalypse. I’m floating on a proverbial snow cloud right now.

The star of this outfit is undoubtedly this absolutely gorgeous scarf. (I’m such a writer, I just called a scarf with a bunch of words on it gorgeous.) I’ve been obsessed lately with these smaller silk infinity scarves. My head and neck area tend to get really hot in class, so these are the perfect accessory for me – I can indulge in the scarf trend without melting.

Pause: my RA just came in to have me sign something, and she complimented me on my scarf. This piece sure is a conversation starter!

Anyway, this dress, on the other hand, is another staple in my wardrobe. And I totally am aware that I posted basically the exact same outfit last week with a different dress and scarf combo, but I don’t care. This is my go-to formula that makes me feel confident, so I’m gonna stick with it.

Tonight I have a meeting (that I’ll tell you guys about at a later date), and then after I’m going home for the weekend. I have a pretty rough colorguard weekend coming up, so it’s nice to have a couple of days to relax and get caught up with work (mostly relaxing though).

Soon I’ll post an update. Even though I document a lot of current thoughts in my OOTD posts, I think this blog is getting a tad impersonal. I’m satisfied with the amount of activity, now I just need to personalize it a bit. Hope that’s okay with you guys?

Competition season is upon us in the indoor colorguard world. With it comes new uniforms, new floors, and new makeup looks! My guard’s theme calls for a more natural look, so none of the products in that pretty little bag are very revolutionary, but I love them all the same. And everything I chose to use is drugstore except for a couple of my brushes (which sometimes I don’t even use).

Face:

I like to go light on my face because I tend to get pretty sweaty when performing. I just aim to even my skin tone, set it, and forget it.

Like I previously mentioned, we’re going for a neutral makeup look. I start with some primer, then use some golden champagne shades and deeper browns on my lid. I like this loreal pressed shadow as a base because it pumps up the sparkle! Then I use a small brush with the wet n wild single to smudge a faux wing on my upper lash line. This makes my eyes look more defined while keeping the look soft. (And it won’t melt off my face!)

Since this still is performance makeup, there’s some small steps I like to take to amp up the definition of my eyes. I use a black waterproof (it’s an emotional show) eyeliner in my tightline and then smudge some brown on my lower lashline and waterline. I’ll then curl my lashes and apply a generous coat of water resistant mascara. This clump crusher water resistant formula holds my curl and doesn’t flake into my eyes while performing!

Our show colors include lots of soft pinks, so I decided to play that off subtly on my lips. I know my lip products are going to fade off while performing, so I go for lightweight formulas that’ll wear off evenly. And that lip gloss/balm smells amazing, so bonus!

Revlon Lip Butter in Sweet Tart
Almay Liquid Lip Balm in Blooming

Tools:

I try to pack light when it comes to brushes and tools. I tend to use my fingers more than anything, especially when applying it quickly on a rushed show day. My lash-curler is a must, and I need a small angled brush for my faux eyeliner trick. The other brushes are just for blending and setting purposes.

I like to use some form of setting spray after I’m finished with everything. It just helps seal all my hard work in place and (hopefully) keep my makeup on through the end of the show. The makeup remover wipes are just for any slip ups that happen all too often when applying makeup quickly.

Elf Makeup Mist and Set
Target Makeup Remover Cleansing Towelettes.

You can’t really see my makeup in detail, but at least you can see me being cute with my two best friends after we were done performing. Also, I did my friend Molly’s makeup too! (She’s the one on the bottom) And I did some light contouring for my other friend, Gabby. I think we all look pretty fabulous!

I’m sure this collection is going to change over the course of the season, but I’m content with it for now. However, I’m already considering playing around with my naked 3 palette instead to bring out some more of the pinks. What do you think would be some great products to add to my lineup? I’m always looking for excuses to invest in more makeup.

There’s been quite a lot of stress in my life as of the last week. For some reason my classes have taken off at an exponential pace and I am struggling to keep up. I’m taking a Writing for the Workplace class and it’s definitely geared towards upperclassmen. I have to write up my resume and I just don’t have much to put on it yet since high school is irrelevant and I’ve been out of it for a year. It’s very frustrating for me since I have to have it ready in two weeks for my mock interview with real employers. It’s just all very overwhelming.

So of course when the first of many thunderstorms rolled in last Thursday I went out in it and ran around for a good half hour. I do this every once and while and it feels. so. good. Running around barefoot in the pouring rain while thunder rumbles and lightning crashes across the sky is one of the best feelings ever to me. It felt amazing to just let go for even a little while.

Letting go and just letting it all happen is something I am so bad at. I let things wear me down until I can no longer take the burden and I crash. Hard. Sometimes I stay down for weeks and it affects my school work and health. I really am a bit of a perfectionist and I’m trying to cut down on the pressure I put on myself to get things just right. It usually ends up with me giving up and being disappointed in myself. It’s something I was going to work on this semester but it seems like I don’t even have time to settle into it at all, let alone better myself.

Hopefully I won’t let myself fall so low again this semester. Everyone has those days but I really want to work on a better self, and letting go and accepting is step one.